What Are the Early Symptoms of a Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)?

After an accident, it’s easy to feel lost about what to do next—especially if you’ve suffered a hard hit to the head. Maybe you felt okay at first, but now you’re noticing strange symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or memory lapses. What do these signs mean? Are they serious, or will they go away on their own?

Recognizing the early symptoms of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is crucial. It’s not just about getting the medical care you need—it’s also about protecting your legal rights if someone else caused the injury. At Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, we’ve spent over 40 years fighting for brain injury victims, so we know how complex these cases can be and how some symptoms often go unnoticed.

In this post, we’ll break down the early signs of TBI to watch for and guide you on the steps to take if you suspect you or a loved one may have been affected. Your health and rights are too important to leave to chance—let’s make sure you’re informed.

Early Symptoms of Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

Mild TBIs, often referred to as concussions, may not be immediately obvious as something serious. However, their symptoms can interfere with daily life. Watch for signs like:

• Headaches  
• Nausea or Vomiting  
• Fatigue or Drowsiness  
• Difficulty with Speech  
• Dizziness or Loss of Balance  

Sensory symptoms can also occur, such as blurred vision, ringing in the ears, light/sound sensitivity, or changes in smell or taste. Cognitive struggles, including confusion, memory issues, and difficulty concentrating, are also common.

Early Symptoms of Moderate to Severe TBI

If the impact to the head was significant, it may result in a moderate or severe TBI. These require immediate medical attention, as the symptoms are more prominent and often much more dangerous. They include:

• Loss of consciousness lasting several minutes to hours  
• Headaches that won’t go away or worsen over time  
• Repeated vomiting or intense nausea  
• Seizures or convulsions  
• Weakness or numbness in fingers and toes  
• Difficulty waking up  
• Clear fluids draining from the eyes or nose  

Cognitive and behavioral changes such as confusion, agitation, slurred speech, or even coma may also indicate a severe TBI.

What to Do If You Suspect You Have a TBI

If you believe you—or someone you know—might have a TBI, follow these steps immediately:

1. Seek Medical Attention

Visit a hospital or neurologist right away. They can perform tests such as CT scans or MRIs to diagnose the injury and recommend treatment.  

2. Document Symptoms  

Keep a journal of any physical, cognitive, or emotional changes you experience. This record is not only helpful for medical professionals but also in case you need legal support.  

3. Stick to Follow-Up Care  

TBIs often require ongoing medical treatment, which may include rehabilitation, medication, or therapy. Neglecting post-accident care could worsen your condition.  

Potential Complications of Ignoring a TBI

If left untreated, TBIs can have serious consequences. In addition to persistent symptoms like headaches and dizziness, a TBI may cause long-term complications such as:

• Seizures or the development of post-traumatic epilepsy  
• Hydrocephalus, a dangerous buildup of fluid in the brain  
• Chronic Headaches  
• Vertigo or Persistent Dizziness  
• Nerve Damage, which can cause paralysis, vision issues, or difficulty swallowing
• Mood Disorders, such as depression, anxiety, or insomnia

Research has shown that nearly 190 people die from a TBI every single day; this underscores why early detection and treatment are essential.

When to Seek Legal Help for a TBI

Traumatic brain injuries don’t just affect your health—they can also lead to financial burdens like hospital bills, time off work, and long-term care costs. If your injury was caused by someone else, you have the right to hold them accountable.

Here’s why working with experienced TBI attorneys can make all the difference:

• They help investigate how your accident happened and identify liability.  
• They ensure all evidence of your injuries and their impact on your life is documented.  
• They fight tirelessly to secure compensation for your medical care, lost earnings, and emotional suffering.  

Don’t wait until it’s too late to seek legal help. Contact a trusted TBI lawyer as soon as possible.

Don’t Delay—Take Action Today

Recognizing the early symptoms of a traumatic brain injury can protect your health and your future. Whether the symptoms seem mild or severe, it’s important to act quickly—get medical attention, document your experience, and consult a legal professional if needed.

At Saks, Robinson & Rittenberg, we’ve spent four decades helping brain injury victims rebuild their lives. Our compassionate team understands what you’re going through and will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. Reach out to us today—your health and future deserve prompt action.